Motorcycle accidents are not only more dangerous than car crashes; they are also more legally and medically complicated. In a city like Las Vegas, where traffic is heavy and fast-moving, riders face heightened risks that can lead to serious, life-altering injuries.
The team at Hale Injury Law is experienced in helping Motorcyclists recover and get back on their feet after an accident.
Unfortunately, motorcycle accident victims are often treated differently when it comes to insurance, fault, and compensation. Understanding these differences is crucial if you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle crash.
1. The Risk of Severe Injury Is Much Higher
Motorcyclists are far more vulnerable in an accident compared to drivers of enclosed vehicles. Without airbags, seatbelts, or protective metal frames, even a low-speed motorcycle crash can result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal bleeding.
These injuries often require long-term medical care. With this heightened risk of injury, having a skilled attorney on your side is essential. The team at Hale Injury Law will work on your behalf so that you are compensated fairly for your injuries.
2. Bias Against Motorcyclists Can Affect Your Case
It’s a harsh reality that many insurance companies and even juries hold unconscious biases against motorcyclists, viewing them as reckless or inherently at fault. This can influence how fault is assigned, how claims are handled, and how much compensation is ultimately awarded.
Having a lawyer who understands these biases and knows how to counter them is essential.
3. Different Insurance Coverage Rules Apply
Motorcyclists in Nevada are subject to different insurance challenges than car drivers. Many riders are underinsured, and standard car insurance policies often exclude motorcycle accidents. If the at-fault driver carries only minimum coverage, a motorcyclist with serious injuries may not receive enough to cover medical bills and lost income. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage becomes extremely important for riders.
4. Helmet Laws Can Impact Compensation
Nevada law requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear helmets. Failure to do so doesn’t automatically make you ineligible for compensation, but it could reduce your settlement if the lack of a helmet contributed to your injuries.
This is due to Nevada’s comparative negligence rules, which adjust compensation based on the injured party’s share of the fault. Protect yourself by always wearing a helmet.
5. Medical Expenses Are Typically Much Higher
Due to the severity of injuries in motorcycle accidents, victims often face massive medical bills, long-term rehabilitation, and lost income. Emotional trauma and PTSD are also more common. These expenses must be accurately calculated and aggressively pursued in settlement negotiations or litigation.
6. You Need a Lawyer with Motorcycle Case Experience
Motorcycle accident claims require a different approach than car accident cases. Your attorney must understand the unique dynamics of motorcycle crashes, the legal and insurance nuances involved, and how to build a strong case that overcomes bias and maximizes compensation. Not every personal injury lawyer has this specialized knowledge, but the team at Hale Injury Law has the experience you need to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Las Vegas
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas?
First and foremost, after a motorcycle accident, get yourself to safety! Seek medical attention, call the police, take photos of the scene, and do not speak to the other party’s insurance company before consulting with a lawyer. Prompt documentation is crucial for your case.
Can I still get compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes, but your settlement may be reduced depending on how not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries. Nevada follows a comparative negligence rule, and wearing a helmet is the law here. Protect your brain, wear a helmet!
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Nevada?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, acting sooner improves your chances of preserving evidence and witness statements.
Are motorcycle accident claims more expensive to settle than car accidents?
Generally, yes. Motorcycle injuries tend to be more severe, which means higher medical bills, longer recovery times, and more substantial damages to claim.
Why is it important to hire a lawyer with motorcycle accident experience?
Motorcycle cases involve different insurance rules, higher injury severity, and unique legal challenges. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer understands how to build a case that accurately reflects your damages and combats unfair treatment.
Protect Yourself and Your Rights
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas, don’t assume it will be treated like a typical car crash. The legal path is more complicated, the injuries are often more severe, and the stakes are significantly higher.
At Hale Injury Law, we specialize in representing motorcycle accident victims and fighting for the full compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.